Trans Nzoia County government has reiterated its commitment towards planting over one million trees annually in line with the national government’s vision for at least 15 billion trees by 2032.
The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Patrick Gacheru made the assurance during a public tree-planting event at Waitaluk ward, Kiminini sub-county on Monday.
Addressing members of public present, Mr Gacheru said the Monday event was one of ongoing series of tree planting activities ahead of the county’s tree planting day, slated for this Wednesday.
The planned event will be presided over by the area Governor George Natembeya.
The county government will roll out several initiatives to involve residents in tree planting to meet the target, and Governor George Natembeya’s administration is committed to increasing tree cover in the county to over 10 percent.
Gacheru urged residents to work together with the government to ensure the 10 percent land under forest cover target has been achieved in order to boost climate mitigation efforts by devolved units and national government.
Besides planting indigenous trees, the CECM encouraged the locals to plant as many fruit variety species in their home compounds.
Area Member of County Assembly (MCA) Furah Lusweti, rooted for more protection measures aimed at ensuring the planted trees grow to maturity.
The MCA appealed for increased budgetary allocation for the Department of Environment to enable it implement climate mitigation and change projects and programmes.
He promised to set aside two percent of the ward-specific funds in the next financial year to support youth and women groups involved in environmental issues.
By Maurice Aluda
